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Top 8 Best-Selling Cars of 2016: A Comprehensive Overview of the Year’s Most Popular Models

June. 28,2025

Discover the top 8 best-selling cars of 2016, including luxury sedans and sporty models that dominated sales. This comprehensive overview highlights vehicle features, sales figures, and what made these models popular among consumers worldwide. Perfect for auto enthusiasts and industry analysts alike, explore what shaped the automotive market in 2016 and the trends that continue to influence car buying decisions today.

Top 8 Best-Selling Cars of 2016: A Comprehensive Overview of the Year’s Most Popular Models

Highlights of the Best-Selling Vehicles in 2016

The year 2016 witnessed exceptional performance across various car models, with certain vehicles capturing consumer attention through their combination of affordability, luxury appeal, and advanced features. These top-selling cars not only defined market trends but also set standards in their respective segments, making them the go-to choices for millions of drivers worldwide. This detailed overview explores the most popular vehicles of 2016, highlighting their key features, sales figures, and what made them stand out in a competitive automobile market.

Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Priced at approximately $40,425, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class emerged as a luxury favorite among consumers. Celebrated for its sophisticated styling, spacious interior, and high-end features, it attracted a broad customer base looking for elegance combined with performance. In 2016, this model sold a remarkable 77,167 units, reflecting its position as a leading luxury sedan. The C-Class's reputation for quality and innovative technology contributed greatly to its sales success. Features such as advanced safety systems, luxurious cabin materials, and refined driving dynamics made it a standout in the luxury segment.

BMW 3 Series
Known globally for its stylish design and driving comfort, the BMW 3 Series started at $33,445 in 2016. Its blend of sporty handling, upscale interior, and cutting-edge technology helped it secure approximately 70,458 sales during the year. The 3 Series' reputation for sporty performance and driver engagement made it a preferred choice among enthusiasts and everyday commuters alike. Its reputation for reliability, coupled with continual innovation, helped sustain its popularity in a fiercely competitive market. Features like dynamic driving modes, modern infotainment systems, and premium materials contributed to its appeal.

Beyond these two heavy hitters, other models demonstrated impressive market performance. The Lexus ES, with its quiet and comfortable cabin, garnered 58,299 sales and was highly regarded among luxury sedans for its safety features and reliability. Its starting price of $43,375 made it an attractive option for those seeking high-end comfort without excessive cost. Mercedes-Benz's E-Class, renowned for its smooth ride and refined interior, sold 50,890 units at a starting price of $53,075. Infiniti’s Q50, appreciated for its advanced technology and sporty appeal, achieved sales of 44,007 units. The Lexus IS, powered by a 241-horsepower engine, sold 37,289 units, earning praise for performance and luxury. Additionally, Acura's TLX and Audi’s A4 ranked prominently, with sales around 37,156 and 36,987 units respectively, both models combining luxury, versatility, and cutting-edge features that appealed to broad customer segments.

Overall, 2016’s automotive sales landscape was characterized by a strong preference for vehicles that balanced luxury, technological innovation, and affordability. These top-selling cars reflect consumer preferences towards comfort, safety, and performance, and they continue to influence market trends in the auto industry. Whether for daily commuting or luxury indulgence, the models listed here exemplify what made 2016 a standout year for automotive sales.